Park Improvements planned at multiple locations There are significant Parks improvements slated for 2026, located at Gallagher Park, Chieftain Park and the neighborhood park at Stone Creek. First, at Gallagher Park, the City Council approved the purchase of a 16' x 20' shade structure that will serve as a stage for outdoor events. City crews are pouring the pad and extending conduit for electrical connectivity; this is anticipated to be in place by late Spring.
Gallagher Park Stage Cover At Chieftain Park, replacement of the 25 year old playground equipment and improvements to surrounding area are significant, as the Tonganoxie Recreation Commission (TRC) includes a total project budget of $1 million; the renovation will offer updated and accessible play structures for a wide range of ages and abilities, safety surfacing, shade, fencing and other amenities. The City and TRC are in a partnership, as the City had to issue the proceeds to finance this, with TRC repaying the debt. The City, the TRC, and USD 464 each approved an Interlocal Agreement in October 2025 which was approved in February 2026 by the Attorney General of the State of Kansas; the interlocal agreement took effect and allowed the advancement of other portions of the overall project. Following the issuance of a RFP for playground equipment in December 2025, the TRC and project design committee presented a letter of recommendation to the City Council on February 2, 2026, proposing that the City move forward with execution of a contract with Cunningham Recreation/Gametime for the major project for playground replacement and other improvements at Chieftain Park. On March 2, 2026, the City Council also approved conveyance of the Park property from the TRC to the City of Tonganoxie and approval of a property management agreement outlining respective roles and responsibilities of each agency. With financing secured, the project will start public engagement for design input, and we look forward to hearing from Park patrons. The expected construction timeline for these improvements is slated for the winter of 2026 and completion by Spring 2027. This timeframe is intended to use the winter months, which is typically the lowest park patronage due to weather and temperatures.
Finally, the City has also allocated for playground equipment improvements at the Stone Creek neighborhood park. This Park, along with Gallagher Park, are the two park spaces that currently fall under the City’s responsibility; Chieftain park is part of the TRC’s portfolio. We are excited to see this many improvements to the Parks, as they continue to be one of the City’s best amenities, and offer the community great gathering places and serve a large part of the Community’s identity.
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